Whirlpool Model WRS321SDHW Manual

The Whirlpool Model WRS321SDHW is a 21.5 cubic foot side-by-side refrigerator with ice and water dispenser, adaptive defrost system, spill-proof glass shelves, humidity-controlled crispers, gallon door bins, and factory-installed ice maker. Features include electronic temperature controls, energy-saving mode, door alarm, and reversible doors. Below are key sections for safety, features, installation, setup, operation, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: Side-by-side refrigerator/freezer, external ice and water dispenser, electronic control panel, factory-installed ice maker, adjustable shelves, and humidity-controlled crispers.

Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. Ensure proper clearance and leveling.

1. Remove packaging: Remove all tape, foam, and cardboard from interior and exterior.
2. Position refrigerator: Place on a level floor with at least 2 inches clearance on sides, top, and back for ventilation.
3. Connect water line: For ice/water dispenser, connect to a cold water line with 1/4" copper tubing or approved water supply kit.
4. Plug into dedicated outlet: Use a properly grounded 115V, 60Hz, 15-amp outlet.
5. Allow stabilization: Let refrigerator stand upright for 4 hours before plugging in.

WARNING! Refrigerator is heavy; use two people to move. Ensure water line connections are tight to prevent leaks.

First-Time Setup

After installation, follow these steps to prepare for use.

1. Power on: Plug in the refrigerator. The interior light and control panel should illuminate.
2. Set temperatures: Use the electronic controls to set refrigerator to 37°F (3°C) and freezer to 0°F (-18°C).
3. Activate ice maker: Lift the wire signal arm to the ON (up) position. Discard the first two batches of ice.
4. Load food: Allow 24 hours for temperatures to stabilize before loading with food.
5. Check water dispenser: Press and hold a glass against the water paddle to flush air from the line (about 2 minutes).

CAUTION! Do not overload shelves. Allow air circulation around food items.

Specifications

• Model: WRS321SDHW
• Type: Side-by-side refrigerator/freezer with dispenser
• Total Capacity: 21.5 cubic feet
• Refrigerator Capacity: 13.7 cubic feet
• Freezer Capacity: 7.8 cubic feet
• Ice Maker: Automatic, factory-installed
• Defrost System: Adaptive defrost
• Controls: Electronic touchpad
• Power Requirements: 115V, 60Hz, 15A
• Dimensions (HxWxD): 66" x 32.75" x 33.25"
• Door Swing: Reversible (left or right hinge)

Controls and Settings

Electronic control panel is located inside the refrigerator compartment on the upper right wall.

Controls: POWER COOL (turns cooling system on/off), TEMPERATURE SET (adjusts fridge/freezer temps), LOCK (locks controls), FILTER RESET (resets water filter status), ALARM (door alarm on/off).

Temperature Settings: Refrigerator range 34°F to 46°F (1°C to 8°C). Freezer range -5°F to 5°F (-21°C to -15°C). Energy Saver: Press and hold TEMP SET for 3 seconds to enable/disable. Door Alarm: Sounds if door is open for more than 5 minutes. Control Lock: Press and hold LOCK for 3 seconds to prevent accidental changes.

Using the Refrigerator

Organize food for optimal cooling and accessibility.

1. Adjust shelves: Lift front of shelf and slide to desired height.
2. Use crispers: Set humidity control slider to HIGH for vegetables, LOW for fruits.
3. Door bins: Store condiments, beverages, and other frequently used items.
4. Meat drawer: If equipped, use for storing fresh meat at slightly colder temperatures.
5. Energy tips: Keep door closed as much as possible; allow hot foods to cool before storing.

Tip: Cover liquids and wrap foods to prevent odor transfer and maintain humidity.

Using the Freezer

For long-term food storage and ice production.

1. Organize: Place frozen foods in baskets or on shelves. Do not block air vents.
2. Ice maker: Ensure wire signal arm is in the UP (ON) position for automatic ice production.
3. Manual ice tray: If equipped, fill with water and place on a flat surface in freezer.
4. Freezing fresh food: Wrap tightly in freezer-safe packaging. Spread packages out until frozen, then stack.
5. Defrosting: This model has an automatic defrost system. No manual defrosting is required.

WARNING! Do not store glass containers with liquids in the freezer as they may break.

Ice & Water Dispenser

External dispenser on freezer door provides cubed ice and chilled water.

1. To get ice: Press a sturdy glass against the ice paddle. Cubed ice will dispense.
2. To get water: Press a sturdy glass against the water paddle. Chilled water will dispense.
3. To turn off ice maker: Lower the wire signal arm to the OFF (down) position.
4. Replace water filter: When FILTER STATUS light turns red, replace the EveryDrop™ filter (model EDR1RXD1). Press and hold FILTER RESET for 3 seconds after replacement.

Note: Dispenser will not operate if control panel is locked or if door is not fully closed.

Care & Cleaning

Unplug refrigerator before cleaning interior. Use mild detergent and warm water; rinse and dry.

Exterior: Clean with soft cloth and mild detergent. Stainless steel models: Use stainless steel cleaner and wipe with grain.

Interior: Remove shelves and bins; wash with warm, soapy water. Clean door gaskets with damp cloth.

Condenser coils: Vacuum coils at rear or bottom front (grille) every 6-12 months for efficiency.

CAUTION! Do not use abrasive cleaners, ammonia, or chlorine bleach. Never pour water over or into the refrigerator.

Regulatory Information

This appliance complies with FCC Part 15 Subpart B. UL Listed. Energy Star® certified (if applicable). Manufactured for household use. Copyright © Whirlpool Corporation. All trademarks used herein are owned by Whirlpool, U.S.A. or its related companies. For support, visit www.whirlpool.com or contact 1-800-253-1301.

Troubleshooting

Reset: Unplug refrigerator for 5 minutes, then plug back in to reset electronic controls.

Service: 1-800-253-1301; www.whirlpool.com